MTV Canada Off The Air

MTV Networks International is exercising its right to terminate an agreement with Canadian broadcaster Craig Media Inc. following Craig’s December 1st acquisition by Toronto-based media company CHUM Ltd.

MTV and MTV2 in Canada will cease to broadcast effective June 30th.

“MTV Networks International remains committed to Canadian audiences and will continue our strong presence in the market via broadcast television distribution and digital media activities,” MTV said in a statement.

As a result of the termination, MTV will no longer have the option to acquire an equity interest in the Canadian channels.

CHUM will re-brand the networks immediately following MTV’s summer departure. Details, including the names of the channels and content, were expected in the upcoming weeks.

MTV said it would announce new plans for Canada in the coming weeks. It is possible the network could come back to the market on its own or with another partner.